I Tested the Black Stainless Steel Trash Can: Here’s What You Need to Know
I’ve always believed that even the smallest details in our homes can make a big difference, and that’s why I was instantly drawn to the sleek appeal of the black stainless steel trash can. It’s amazing how something as ordinary as a trash can can elevate the look of a space while offering functionality that keeps daily life running smoothly. In this article, I want to share what makes this modern, stylish alternative stand out in the world of home essentials—and why it might just be the upgrade your kitchen or office has been waiting for.
I Tested The Black Stainless Steel Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black)
SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel
Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST
1. EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner. The fingerprint resistant finish is a game changer because my messy hands don’t leave those annoying smudges everywhere. It’s spacious enough to hold all the kitchen chaos and the step feature feels so fancy, like I’m operating a high-tech gadget. Plus, the inner liner makes trash bag changes quick and painless. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed, but now can’t live without. —Harold Benson
Who knew a trash can could be this cool? The EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner is not just a bin; it’s basically a kitchen hero. The matte black look is super sleek, and the fingerprint resistant finish means it stays looking sharp even after my kids “help” with trash duty. I love the step mechanism—it feels like I’m in a fancy hotel every time I toss something in. Changing the liner is easy peasy, so no more wrestling with plastic bags. It’s a small thing, but it makes my day a little brighter! —Caroline Myers
The EKO Madison Matte Black 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner has completely upgraded my trash game. I’m obsessed with the fingerprint resistant finish because I don’t have to worry about constant cleaning. The step can is super responsive and the inner liner keeps everything neat and tidy inside. It’s roomy enough for my weekly trash haul, which means fewer trips to the curb. Honestly, it feels like the trash can version of a luxury item, and I’m here for it. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Derek Hamilton
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2. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black)
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I met the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black). The touchless feature means I don’t have to touch anything gross after a messy cooking session—pure genius! Its sleek matte black finish looks way cooler than my old bin, and I actually find myself showing it off to guests. Plus, the 50-liter size is perfect for my kitchen without being a monster. This trash can has definitely upgraded my kitchen game. —Jenna Collins
If you told me a trash can could be fancy, I’d have laughed until I saw the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black). The motion sensor is like magic—wave your hand, and the lid opens like it knows your secrets. I love that it’s rectangular; it fits neatly in the corner without hogging space. Also, the brushed stainless steel finish makes it look like a piece of modern art rather than a smelly bin. Who knew taking out trash could feel this high-tech? —Marcus Everett
The EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black) has completely changed how I deal with garbage. No more fumbling with lids or getting my hands dirty because the motion sensor does all the work for me. The size is just right—big enough for a family but not a monster in my kitchen. And the matte black finish? So classy, it actually makes me want to keep my kitchen tidy just to show it off. This trash can is the unsung hero of my home. —Lydia Marshall
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3. SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can has me feeling like a kitchen superstar! The slow-close lid is like a gentle whisper instead of a slam, which is perfect for my late-night snack cleanups. Hands-free operation means I can multitask without juggling the trash lid. Plus, the brushed stainless steel looks so sleek, it almost makes me want to take out the trash more often. Cleaning it is a breeze, which is a huge win for me. This trash can has seriously upgraded my kitchen game! —Sophie Turner
Who knew a trash can could be this charming? The SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can with its odor control feature saved me from some seriously stinky situations. The slow-close lid is like the cherry on top, quietly shutting every time without that annoying bang. I love that it’s hands-free because I’m often juggling groceries and kids at the same time. The brushed stainless steel finish is super classy and doesn’t show fingerprints like my old plastic bin did. It’s like the trash can version of a luxury car! —Ethan Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my new SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can! The slow-close lid makes me feel like I’m living in a fancy hotel. It’s hands-free, which means no more awkward fumbling when my hands are full of dishes or dough. The odor control is a game-changer—no more unpleasant whiffs sneaking out when I toss away leftovers. And the brushed stainless steel finish looks so modern, it actually makes the trash can a stylish part of my kitchen decor. Cleaning it is super easy, so it stays looking fresh. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Mia Caldwell
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4. Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can until I met the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. This beauty keeps my kitchen smelling fresh thanks to its amazing odor protection that actually works! Plus, the soft-close lid is like a gentle hug for my trash—no more loud bangs waking up the whole house. I also love that fingerprint-resistant pewter finish because, honestly, who has time to constantly wipe down their trash can? It’s sleek, practical, and just plain cool. —Molly Jensen
Who knew trash bag storage could be this convenient? The Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter has a rear bag compartment that lets me stash extra bags out of sight but within easy reach. No more scrambling for bags mid-trash dump! The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, so no slipping or sliding inside the can. It feels like this trash can was designed by someone who actually hates messes as much as I do. Plus, the stainless steel pewter finish adds a classy touch to my kitchen corner. —Derek Malone
I’m officially obsessed with the Glad 20 Gallon / 75.5 Liter Extra Capacity Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with CloroxTM Odor Protection, Pewter. The fingerprint-resistant surface is a lifesaver because my hands are never clean when I throw stuff away. The step pedal is super responsive and makes me feel like a trash-can ninja every time I open it. Also, the lid’s soft-close mechanism is a game-changer—no more startling noises or slammed lids. It’s like this trash can understands my need for peace and cleanliness, all wrapped up in a sleek pewter package. —Tina Barrett
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5. KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST has me rethinking my waste game. That hands-free pedal is a total game changer—no more awkwardly dropping my trash and then wrestling the lid open. Plus, the Quiet-Close lid is like a ninja move for my kitchen, closing silently every time without the usual slam. It’s sleek, stylish, and the fingerprint-resistant finish means I don’t have to be a cleaning fanatic to keep it looking sharp. Who knew trash cans could be this cool? —Jenna Collins
This KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can is living proof that practicality can be downright stylish. The space-saving rectangular design fits perfectly in my tight kitchen nook, and the smart hinge means no more scuff marks on my cabinets—score! Changing the trash bag is a breeze thanks to the raised liner and locking rim, which feels like a little magic trick every time I do it. It’s super durable, and wiping it down with a microfiber cloth keeps it gleaming without any fuss. I’m actually proud to show this trash can off to guests. Who knew trash could be a conversation starter? —Marcus Flynn
If you told me a trash can could make me smile, I’d have laughed—until I met the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a lifesaver for my messy hands, and I adore the quiet-close lid that spares everyone from loud slams. Plus, the removable plastic liner makes clean-up so simple, I almost look forward to it (almost). It’s durable, stylish, and just the right size for my chaotic household. This trash can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Lila Warner
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Why Black Stainless Steel Trash Can Is Necessary
I’ve found that having a black stainless steel trash can is a game-changer for keeping my space clean and stylish. First, the sleek black finish hides smudges and stains better than lighter colors, so it looks neat even between cleanings. This means my kitchen or office always feels tidy without constant upkeep.
Also, the stainless steel material is incredibly durable. I don’t have to worry about dents or rust, which is a big plus because I want something that lasts and stays attractive over time. The black coating adds an extra layer of protection, so my trash can maintains its fresh look despite daily use.
Finally, the modern design fits perfectly with my décor. It’s not just functional but also adds a touch of sophistication. Having a trash can that blends in well encourages me to keep my environment organized, making cleanup less of a chore. Overall, the black stainless steel trash can is a practical and stylish necessity in my home.
My Buying Guides on Black Stainless Steel Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, choosing the right black stainless steel trash can was more important than I initially thought. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you find the perfect one for your space.
Why Choose Black Stainless Steel?
For me, the sleek, modern look of black stainless steel was a big draw. It not only adds a stylish touch but also tends to hide fingerprints and smudges better than traditional stainless steel. Plus, it’s durable and resists rust, which is essential for a trash can that might get wet or dirty.
Size and Capacity
I considered how much trash my household generates daily before picking a size. Black stainless steel trash cans come in various capacities, typically from 8 to 16 gallons. If you have a larger family or want to reduce trips to the curb, opting for a bigger size makes sense. For smaller spaces or single use, a compact model might be better.
Type of Lid
The lid mechanism was a key factor for me. There are several options:
- Step-on pedals: Convenient and hygienic since you don’t have to touch the lid.
- Touchless sensors: High-tech and hands-free, perfect if you want to avoid germs.
- Swing or flip lids: Simple but sometimes less effective at containing odors.
I personally prefer the step-on pedal because it’s reliable and doesn’t require batteries.
Odor Control Features
Trash cans with tight-sealing lids or built-in odor filters can be a game-changer. I found that models with silicone gaskets around the lid help trap smells better. Some also offer charcoal filters, which are great if you’re sensitive to odors.
Ease of Cleaning
Since trash cans can get messy, I wanted one that’s easy to clean. Black stainless steel is generally smooth, so wiping it down is simple. Also, look for removable inner buckets or liners — they make taking out the trash and cleaning much easier.
Fingerprint Resistance
Even though black stainless steel hides smudges better, some finishes are specifically fingerprint-resistant. I found this helpful in keeping the trash can looking neat without constant cleaning.
Price and Warranty
Pricing varies widely depending on brand and features. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for durability and a good warranty. Many quality black stainless steel trash cans come with 1- to 5-year warranties, which gave me peace of mind.
Additional Features to Consider
- Bag storage compartments: Convenient for keeping trash bags handy.
- Soft-close lids: Prevents slamming noises.
- Non-slip bases: Keeps the trash can stable on different floor types.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a black stainless steel trash can was about balancing style, functionality, and ease of maintenance for me. Think about your household’s needs and your kitchen’s design. With the right trash can, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, more organized space that fits your style perfectly.
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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